Fan Riot Forces Copa Libertadores Match Cancellation

A group-stage match in the Copa Libertadores between Colombia's Independiente Medellín and defending champion Flamengo of Brazil was called off after home supporters ignited fireworks and set fires inside the stadium. The incident marks the latest example of serious crowd violence involving South American football fans.

The referee ordered players off the field at the Atanasio Girardot stadium in Medellín shortly after the opening whistle. Approximately 50 minutes later, authorities instructed spectators to evacuate the venue. South American football's governing body, CONMEBOL, subsequently announced the match's cancellation.

Some masked hardcore fans of the home team staged a protest against the club's management and ownership during the disruption.

Flamengo's sporting director, José Boto, called on CONMEBOL to award the three points to the visiting side. "The responsibility does not lie with us," he said in a video statement. "The home team was unable to guarantee security."